SECL Delivers Best-Ever Q1 Performance with Record Coal Production, Offtake and Overburden Removal – Indian PSU
South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), the flagship subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has registered its strongest-ever first-quarter operational performance, setting new records in coal production, coal offtake and overburden removal (OBR) during the first quarter (Q1) of FY 2026-27.
The company produced 44.10 million tonnes (MT) of coal during the April-June quarter, recording a 7.19 per cent increase over the corresponding period of the previous financial year. Coal offtake also touched an all-time high of 48.79 MT, reflecting a 5.29 per cent year-on-year growth, while overburden removal reached 99.36 million cubic metres (MCuM), up 5.62 per cent over Q1 FY 2025-26.
Historic June Performance
SECL also recorded its best-ever monthly operational performance in June 2026. Coal production and offtake reached record levels during the month, while overburden removal touched an all-time high of 34.05 MCuM. The June OBR performance exceeded the monthly target by nearly 10 per cent and registered a 17.3 per cent increase over June 2025, providing a strong operational base for maintaining production momentum in the remaining months of the financial year.
Strong Growth in Mechanised Coal Evacuation
The company’s mechanised coal evacuation through First Mile Connectivity (FMC) systems continued to expand significantly. During Q1 FY 2026-27, SECL dispatched 19.58 MT of coal through FMC infrastructure, registering an impressive 19.7 per cent year-on-year growth.
The increased use of FMC-based loading aligns with Coal India Limited’s strategy of promoting faster, cleaner and environmentally sustainable coal transportation through modern silo-based, dust-free loading systems.
CMD Harish Duhan Highlights Team Effort
Commenting on the company’s performance, Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, SECL, said: “SECL has delivered its best-ever first-quarter performance in coal production, offtake and overburden removal, reflecting the dedication of our workforce and focus on operational excellence. The strong growth in FMC-based loading underscores our commitment to efficient and sustainable mining practices. With comprehensive monsoon preparedness measures already in place across our mining operations, we remain committed to ensuring uninterrupted coal supplies and supporting the nation’s energy security.”
Power Sector Receives Major Share of Supplies
Coal supplies to the power sector remained the primary contributor to SECL’s offtake growth. During the first quarter, the company supplied 37.79 MT of coal to power utilities, registering a 5.4 per cent increase over the same period last year. The enhanced supply played a vital role in meeting the country’s electricity demand during the peak summer months and the onset of the monsoon season.
Underground Mining Posts Six-Year High
SECL also reported remarkable progress in underground mining. Underground coal production rose 23.35 per cent year-on-year to 3.17 MT, marking the company’s highest first-quarter underground production in the last six years.
The achievement reflects SECL’s continued investment in modern underground mining technologies, improved operational practices and enhanced productivity.
Strengthening Coal India’s Growth
With record-breaking production, improved coal evacuation infrastructure, increased power sector supplies and significant gains in underground mining, SECL has laid a strong foundation for FY 2026-27. The company’s outstanding first-quarter performance reinforces its position as one of Coal India Limited’s key production hubs and underscores its continued commitment to supporting India’s energy security while pursuing operational excellence and sustainable mining practices.
